I just got back from a meeting in Tampa. Following the meeting, a group of us went to the hotel bar to continue the conversation.
Guess what happened instead?
Everyone sat “playing with” their iPhones and BlackBerrys! What little conversation there was revolved around the latest apps.
Somehow, with the need to communicate quicker, and more easily, we seem to have lost the art of the conversation.
You know … actually talking to people.
When I think of the time it takes to post a tweet on Twitter, send an e-mail, or to update a Facebook page, I also think about how many people we could have actually spoken to, if we just picked up the phone.
What’s happening in our workplace when colleagues who work next to each other end up texting instead of getting up to chat face to face?
What does that say about interpersonal communications? Is this really a way to build a relationship?
Believe me, I am a proponent of using the latest social networks -- check me out on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Naymz – but NEVER in lieu of meeting people for coffee, or phoning someone and having a real conversation.
Business particularly is all about the connections you make – and these are much more effective when done face to face.
Reading words on a screen, even with a video and/or audio element added, is and never will be the same as having a real dialogue in person.
Many times there are subtle nuances to communication and body language that “speak” far greater than actual words. How does this non-spoken “conversation” get conveyed online?
In the search to expand our networks, I truly believe that something is being lost.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this.
Showing posts with label Facebook. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Facebook. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Increasing My Digital “Fingerprint” Via Social Networks/Media
How the world has changed!
I have been part of a mastermind group of speakers for the past 12 ½ years – Master Speakers International (MSI).
Our goal at our meetings (three times a year) is to share ideas, best practices, and resources to expand our speaking businesses.
One of our members credits the group with $5 million worth of business – due to two ideas he got during meetings!
At our meeting yesterday in Minneapolis, the entire conversation was about webinars, teleseminars, and social networking sites.
A few years ago, we would have said that nothing beats the live, in-person presentation. I still feel that way.
However, as speakers, we always have to learn to be more flexible --and open minded – and look for alternative ways to deliver our content.
There is also much to learn when it comes to the best use of social media.
Having said that, along with this blog and my web site proper (insert links), you can check me out on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.
Will this increased cyber presence generate business? I have no idea, at least not yet -- but I can’t afford not to jump on board and Tweet away and post updates!
I welcome your thoughts.
By the way, if you want to attend my free webinar on communication skills for Copper Conferencing on June 16th, take this link to register.
I have been part of a mastermind group of speakers for the past 12 ½ years – Master Speakers International (MSI).
Our goal at our meetings (three times a year) is to share ideas, best practices, and resources to expand our speaking businesses.
One of our members credits the group with $5 million worth of business – due to two ideas he got during meetings!
At our meeting yesterday in Minneapolis, the entire conversation was about webinars, teleseminars, and social networking sites.
A few years ago, we would have said that nothing beats the live, in-person presentation. I still feel that way.
However, as speakers, we always have to learn to be more flexible --and open minded – and look for alternative ways to deliver our content.
There is also much to learn when it comes to the best use of social media.
Having said that, along with this blog and my web site proper (insert links), you can check me out on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.
Will this increased cyber presence generate business? I have no idea, at least not yet -- but I can’t afford not to jump on board and Tweet away and post updates!
I welcome your thoughts.
By the way, if you want to attend my free webinar on communication skills for Copper Conferencing on June 16th, take this link to register.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Temple Commencement Address Part II: Sell Yourself & The Value You Bring
Last week, I wrote about my upcoming Temple University speech during graduation ceremonies.
The commencement from the School of Communications & Theater is this Thursday, May 14th.
I’ve spent many hours writing and practicing my presentation.
The first point I described last week (and will deliver) was about the importance of finding/identifying both your passion and your talents.
The second key idea that I’ll share with graduates is the importance of selling yourself and the value you bring.
When selling, not only do you need to use multiple channels, but also do it in a positive way – one that projects an image of someone who is polished and professional, not that of a college undergrad.
What are these channels? I break them down into two categories:
New Age -- Using Modern Technologies
•Check Monster.com, CareerBuilder.com and any other job web sites.
•Create multiple resumes and save them as nonmodifiable PDFs or JPEGs with appropriate file names on your computer. These resumes will each focus on different, specific traits/qualifications, depending on the job/industry you are targeting. If you code them right, you can send the right one as an e-mail attachment at the drop of a hat. Remember that all of these resumes, and their accompanying cover letters, need to be proofread by someone else. You’re too close to them.
•Develop a web site which highlights your capabilities.
•Create a YouTube account, and upload a video resume
•Create a blog, or blog on others' blogs.
•Tweet on Twitter
•Use other social networking sites like LinkedIn, Myspace and Facebook.
Again, remember to clean up your act. Recruiters are using these tools, and checking you out and your digital “footprint”.
Ask yourself what virtual impressions are you creating and making with these businesspeople/potential employers?
Old-Fashioned Techniques
•Talk to people, don’t just text or e-mail them.
•Expand your real life network. It is ultimately people who hire other people.
Go to your friends’ parents and parents’ friends. Let others know what you want and what you are capable of.
Spend less time texting your friends and listening to music. Everywhere you go, make it a point to meet people -- a variety of people.
College students and business professionals need to be active in their community. Join trade groups and clubs. Consider volunteering, too. Helping others also provides great dividends.
You can’t wait to be discovered – it is up to each graduate (or professional) to sell him/herself. Be proactive, not reactive.
Next week, I will write about the third part of my commencement address – looking for, and creating, specific opportunities.
Wish me well this Thursday!
The commencement from the School of Communications & Theater is this Thursday, May 14th.
I’ve spent many hours writing and practicing my presentation.
The first point I described last week (and will deliver) was about the importance of finding/identifying both your passion and your talents.
The second key idea that I’ll share with graduates is the importance of selling yourself and the value you bring.
When selling, not only do you need to use multiple channels, but also do it in a positive way – one that projects an image of someone who is polished and professional, not that of a college undergrad.
What are these channels? I break them down into two categories:
New Age -- Using Modern Technologies
•Check Monster.com, CareerBuilder.com and any other job web sites.
•Create multiple resumes and save them as nonmodifiable PDFs or JPEGs with appropriate file names on your computer. These resumes will each focus on different, specific traits/qualifications, depending on the job/industry you are targeting. If you code them right, you can send the right one as an e-mail attachment at the drop of a hat. Remember that all of these resumes, and their accompanying cover letters, need to be proofread by someone else. You’re too close to them.
•Develop a web site which highlights your capabilities.
•Create a YouTube account, and upload a video resume
•Create a blog, or blog on others' blogs.
•Tweet on Twitter
•Use other social networking sites like LinkedIn, Myspace and Facebook.
Again, remember to clean up your act. Recruiters are using these tools, and checking you out and your digital “footprint”.
Ask yourself what virtual impressions are you creating and making with these businesspeople/potential employers?
Old-Fashioned Techniques
•Talk to people, don’t just text or e-mail them.
•Expand your real life network. It is ultimately people who hire other people.
Go to your friends’ parents and parents’ friends. Let others know what you want and what you are capable of.
Spend less time texting your friends and listening to music. Everywhere you go, make it a point to meet people -- a variety of people.
College students and business professionals need to be active in their community. Join trade groups and clubs. Consider volunteering, too. Helping others also provides great dividends.
You can’t wait to be discovered – it is up to each graduate (or professional) to sell him/herself. Be proactive, not reactive.
Next week, I will write about the third part of my commencement address – looking for, and creating, specific opportunities.
Wish me well this Thursday!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Social-Networking Sites Should Supplement Interpersonal Communication NOT Supersede It
Earlier this month, a Time magazine reporter asked in an article whether Facebook replaces face time or enhances it.
My vote is the latter.
Social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, Naymz.com, LinkedIn and even the microblogging site Twitter all should supplement your daily personal and work interactions, but NEVER serve as a substitute for face-to-face encounters.
Sure, it’s a lot easier to log onto your favorite site, type for a few minutes – maybe IM someone or “send a drink request” via Facebook -- than scraping off your car in the dead of winter to fight traffic, or take a train, plane, taxi or bus to meet someone.
But, I ask you to consider … what price do you pay for this comfort?
A friend’s hurt feelings? A confused client? Upset relatives?
Reading words on a screen, even with a video and/or audio element added, is not -- and, never will be -- the same as having a real dialogue in person.
Many times there are subtle nuances to communication and body language that “speak” far greater than actual words. How does this non-spoken “conversation” get conveyed online?
It can’t. But, worse, yet, often the message being sent and even its tone are misunderstood or misconstrued by the recipients.
Before you drop your Internet access, and close your online accounts, I’m not suggesting that you do this -- or even resolve to meet everyone in your network once a week or even monthly.
I am simply reminding everyone of the importance of a phone call and in-person encounter as part of the communication “mix.”
So, the next time you consider sending your former colleague a friend request, sit back, log off, and pick up the phone. Or, schedule a visit the next time you’re in his or her neighborhood.
I guarantee you that the impact you make in reconnecting with this person in such a manner, will far exceed the actual cost of the call or gas in your car.
Nothing speaks volumes more than a real-life hug or handshake.
My vote is the latter.
Social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, Naymz.com, LinkedIn and even the microblogging site Twitter all should supplement your daily personal and work interactions, but NEVER serve as a substitute for face-to-face encounters.
Sure, it’s a lot easier to log onto your favorite site, type for a few minutes – maybe IM someone or “send a drink request” via Facebook -- than scraping off your car in the dead of winter to fight traffic, or take a train, plane, taxi or bus to meet someone.
But, I ask you to consider … what price do you pay for this comfort?
A friend’s hurt feelings? A confused client? Upset relatives?
Reading words on a screen, even with a video and/or audio element added, is not -- and, never will be -- the same as having a real dialogue in person.
Many times there are subtle nuances to communication and body language that “speak” far greater than actual words. How does this non-spoken “conversation” get conveyed online?
It can’t. But, worse, yet, often the message being sent and even its tone are misunderstood or misconstrued by the recipients.
Before you drop your Internet access, and close your online accounts, I’m not suggesting that you do this -- or even resolve to meet everyone in your network once a week or even monthly.
I am simply reminding everyone of the importance of a phone call and in-person encounter as part of the communication “mix.”
So, the next time you consider sending your former colleague a friend request, sit back, log off, and pick up the phone. Or, schedule a visit the next time you’re in his or her neighborhood.
I guarantee you that the impact you make in reconnecting with this person in such a manner, will far exceed the actual cost of the call or gas in your car.
Nothing speaks volumes more than a real-life hug or handshake.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Remember -- Your Brand is Viral, Too!
We all know about YouTube, Facebook, MySpace, and LinkedIn.
But, have you heard about Twitter? Buzzle? Blogger? Plaxo? Ecademy? Spoke? Naymz?
There’s no question that online marketing and blog web sites have exploded in recent years – a new one seems to pop into the picture every month.
More and more professionals – myself included – are taking advantage of these free sites, and creating profiles. After all, viral marketing is yet another way to get your message out there to the masses, and expanding your “brand.”
Don’t forget, however, that even online branding efforts must have a consistent message and “feel.” Whatever you do in the real world via traditional marketing materials like letterhead, business cards and your web site, must “jive” with your profiles and images on these new social networking sites, too.
Carry over any tag lines you use to viral marketing – and use the same or similar pictures, too. Sure, it’s OK to also create a more edgy look and content for your profile and diary on Twitter. After all, you don’t want to appear staid online -- the audience you will reach there is anything but.
By all means, have fun when expanding your online presence. But, just remember …. Don’t say or post anything there that you wouldn’t want your top client, prospect, or future employer, to see and read.
It’s OK to have an opinion about the latest social or political event, but ask yourself whether it’s wise to post it where millions could see it and possibly misperceive your intent.
Even e-mails between colleagues have been misinterpreted – it’s hard to truly understand one’s intent in the written vs. spoken word. Just imagine what your blog entry may be saying about you.
Your brief moment of perceived levity or sarcasm could end up costing you, big time.
But, have you heard about Twitter? Buzzle? Blogger? Plaxo? Ecademy? Spoke? Naymz?
There’s no question that online marketing and blog web sites have exploded in recent years – a new one seems to pop into the picture every month.
More and more professionals – myself included – are taking advantage of these free sites, and creating profiles. After all, viral marketing is yet another way to get your message out there to the masses, and expanding your “brand.”
Don’t forget, however, that even online branding efforts must have a consistent message and “feel.” Whatever you do in the real world via traditional marketing materials like letterhead, business cards and your web site, must “jive” with your profiles and images on these new social networking sites, too.
Carry over any tag lines you use to viral marketing – and use the same or similar pictures, too. Sure, it’s OK to also create a more edgy look and content for your profile and diary on Twitter. After all, you don’t want to appear staid online -- the audience you will reach there is anything but.
By all means, have fun when expanding your online presence. But, just remember …. Don’t say or post anything there that you wouldn’t want your top client, prospect, or future employer, to see and read.
It’s OK to have an opinion about the latest social or political event, but ask yourself whether it’s wise to post it where millions could see it and possibly misperceive your intent.
Even e-mails between colleagues have been misinterpreted – it’s hard to truly understand one’s intent in the written vs. spoken word. Just imagine what your blog entry may be saying about you.
Your brief moment of perceived levity or sarcasm could end up costing you, big time.
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